The offline maps feature is not included in today’s release of the new Google Maps app (version 7.0) for Android.

We know a lot of you love offline maps, and we've included a special feature hidden in the app that allows you to pre-load an area of the map you need offline simply by going to that area in the app and typing “OK Maps” in the search box (or speaking “OK Maps” into your Android device). That area will then be pre-loaded to your device cache and accessible when you don’t have a connection. Just return to that area of the map, and it will be available to you.

Please stay tuned, as the team works hard to bring you updates to this feature.

Abby

Google Maps Community Manager

EDIT: Thank you all for your feedback! We’ve listened and have updated the app to include a “Make this map area available offline” card, making it easier for you to cache offline maps. For more information, please see this sticky.